…as Soludo expresses appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing federal projects.
AWKA, NIGERIA — The iNews Times | Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has been sworn in for a second term, unveiling an ambitious roadmap to transform Anambra State into a globally competitive economic hub modeled after Dubai, Taiwan, and Silicon Valley.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka on March 17, 2026, Soludo reflected on his administration’s journey over the past four years, emphasizing that his government prioritized work over ceremony from day one.
“On that very day, we worked for 8 hours and 45 minutes no fanfare, no parade, no celebrations of any kind just work,” he recalled, noting that his first official visit was to Okpoko, once regarded as the largest urban slum in the Southeast.
The governor described his re-election, secured with 73 percent of the vote, as a “near-unanimous affirmation” of his administration’s performance and development trajectory. He credited the victory to grassroots mobilization by citizens, calling it an “extraordinary demonstration of ownership” of the Anambra project.
Soludo disclosed that his government had delivered over 90 percent of its first-term promises, alongside major projects not originally captured in its manifesto. He added that the administration’s achievements had earned widespread recognition, with citizens declaring that “Anambra is back and rapidly rising.”
Looking ahead, the governor reiterated his long-term vision of positioning Anambra as an “African Dubai–Taiwan–Silicon Valley (ADTS),” a concept he first introduced in 2006. He explained that the strategy rests on three pillars: commercial and logistics expansion, industrial growth, and technology-driven innovation.
“With our strategic location and the entrepreneurial spirit of our people, Anambra is naturally positioned to evolve into a major commercial and logistics hub,” he said, highlighting the economic potential of Onitsha and the River Niger.
Soludo also underscored investments in education, healthcare, and digital skills as key drivers of industrial and technological advancement, revealing that over 300,000 youths had already been trained in digital competencies under his administration.
He acknowledged the challenges inherited in 2022, including insecurity, decaying infrastructure, and weak public institutions, but noted that significant progress had been made. According to him, security operations dismantled dozens of criminal camps, restoring stability across previously troubled areas.
“Our schools, markets, businesses, and public servants are back to work. Ndi Anambra now say that ours is one of the safest states in Nigeria,” he stated.
The governor highlighted achievements in infrastructure, including nearly 3,000 kilometers of roads and over 200 kilometers of dualized routes, as well as improvements in healthcare and education. He added that Anambra had recorded notable successes in fiscal transparency and sustainability without borrowing from commercial banks.
Soludo also announced plans for accelerated development in his second term, describing it as “Gear 4.0.” Key priorities include security, electricity, urban planning, and large-scale infrastructure projects such as new cities, an aerotropolis, rail systems, and industrial zones.
“We are intentionally securing strategic land spaces as a land bank for future developments,” he said, warning that population growth projections require urgent planning for infrastructure, housing, and transportation.
The governor further called for regional cooperation and national integration, urging the Southeast to adopt a new development-focused political approach. He emphasized the need for unity, strategic alliances, and constructive engagement within Nigeria’s democratic framework.
“We need Nigeria and Nigeria needs us. We must boldly assert our rights as equal citizens, but with strategies that deliver sustainable prosperity,” he said.
Soludo also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing federal projects in the region and support for key infrastructure initiatives, including rail and gas development plans.
In a strong closing message, the governor pledged unwavering commitment to delivering results in his second term.
“This mission is personal. I am driven to build a state where every Onye Anambra can proudly say, ‘This is my home,’” he declared.
He assured residents that his administration would continue working tirelessly to consolidate gains and lay the foundation for a livable and prosperous smart megacity, insisting that the government’s “Solution is Here” mantra remains a binding covenant with the people.
As Anambra enters a new phase of governance, expectations remain high that the administration’s bold vision and accelerated agenda will translate into sustained growth and long-term transformation.
